Matt and Nicole’s original wedding plans succumbed to the coronavirus, just like countless other couples that chose 2020 as the year to have their wedding. But just as many others have done, they proceeded with their wedding date and still had the best day ever, regardless of how different the day looked from their original plans. We were all spoiled with a beautiful November day that was almost perfect weather-wise, save a little breeziness.
We started the day with the girls having hair and makeup done at The W Salon in Marion. We were able to get all of our detail shots done in there as well, thanks to the available natural light AND their choice of daylight light bulbs that came in clutch. The ceremony was at Marion Methodist Church, which is where the couple finished getting dressed and ready. Once Nicole was in her dress, she shared a special first look with her dad. It was a beautiful moment and they literally could not stop hugging each other. They would take a break, look at each other, then hug. Take a break, say something sweet, then hug. And on, and on. 🙂 Maybe it was just for the photos, I don’t know. But it photographed well and it felt sweet. Matt got his first look at Nicole as she walked down the aisle with her dad. Though the guest list was small, the expansive space of the auditorium and stage felt full with the dim lighting and the emotional weight of the momentous occasion.
After the ceremony, we traveled out to Cedar Ridge Winery, which was to be the site of their original reception. They were kind enough to let us still use the property, and I think everyone knows the love affair I have with shooting out at Cedar Ridge. I don’t care if it’s the middle of November and there are no leaves on the vines. The place is still special and always photographs super well. This time, we broadened our horizons a little further and ventured over to the barrel room for a totally different vibe. Spoiler alert, it also worked great, and I’m pumped about the images we were able to create in there. So adding in another amazing shooting option to the property that is already my favorite to shoot at? Mind blown.
The reception was a formal, four course dinner at Black Sheep Social Club in downtown Cedar Rapids. Before dinner though, we had a few minutes to play around in the dark, since the sunset happens basically right after noon nowadays. It was an opportunity to give Matt and Nicole even more variety in their set of portraits from the day, and it’s always fun dodging cars and scooters in the street. After everyone ordered their food inside, the wedding party delivered some great toasts. There was no microphone and there was no formality to them at all (which added to the character of the day even more), but they were great. Belly laughs and tears were shared as they delivered their heartfelt messages. It was pretty cool, and it was a great way to wrap up and put a bow on their perfect day.
Matt and Nicole, thank you guys so much for choosing to have us be a part of your wedding day (and treating us to that awesome dinner)! We have appreciated the chance to partner with you guys and wish you all the best for a lifetime of love and happiness together!
Hair/Makeup – The W Salon (Leah Washburn)
Flowers – Lily & Rose Floral Studio
Macaroons – French Pastry by Sandrine
Dress – Heart to Heart
Stationery – Em Design
Reception Dinner – Black Sheep Social Club
Photographers – Carter Photography
Hermosos momentos!! Feliz unión 🍾 saludos